Closing the gender and diversity gap in cybersecurity is critical if the profession is serious about addressing its current workforce crisis. (ISC)² estimates that the Cybersecurity Workforce Gap currently stands at 2.72 million professionals globally, but women only make up roughly 25% of the cybersecurity industry, compared to at least 40% of the global workforce. Every year, the SC Media Women in IT Security program celebrates significant contributions of those who have faced these challenges and made a positive impact on the advancement of cybersecurity in government or the private sector. (ISC)² CEO Clar Rosso was recognized as an advocate for her work in expanding and nurturing a new generation of cybersecurity practitioners.
In an article announcing the honorees, Jill Aitoro noted, “Promoting diversity of any kind, particularly for an industry where minority representation has historically been weak, is an effort worth undertaking. But this program, now in its ninth year, goes beyond trumpeting women’s existence to instead spotlight the presence of excellence. This is about more than recognizing the presence of women in the security community. This is about recognizing the work of women in the security community.”
Clar was recognized for her role in expanding and diversifying the cybersecurity workforce by helping launch the (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity certification, as well as her pledge to deliver the foundational program and exams for free to one million people worldwide. The program demonstrates how organizations can make the necessary investments needed to break down barriers and clear obstacles for anyone interested in a cybersecurity career. In addition to open enrollment, (ISC)² is working closely with new and existing partner organizations to reach historically under-represented populations and encourage greater diversity. The organization has pledged that 500,000 course enrollments and exams – will be directed toward students of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), minority-serving institutions (MSIs), tribal organizations and women’s organizations across the globe.
In addition to Rosso’s profile, SC Media also featured a conversation with Dwan Jones, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) at (ISC)², who outlined the organization’s DEI Strategic Plan. The conversation was wide ranging and detailed the specific ways (ISC)² is elevating diverse voices and perspectives by highlighting best practices, amplifying successes and providing the tools and strategies to help organizations and diverse professionals succeed.
(ISC)² also contributed two pieces on how organizations can expand representation and accelerate the diversity of women in cybersecurity, as well as why inclusive terminology matters and is another demonstrable way an organization can show its commitment to DEI.